Olympian comes out on YouTube

Tom Daley takes control of his own story

It takes strength to come out, regardless of position in society, but in 2013, all eyes were on Olympic diver Tom Daley. With speculation in the press mounting, Daley took matters into his own hands and used his YouTube channel to speak directly to the world – unabashed and unedited.

Diving With Rainbows

“I wanted to illustrate how Tom felt after he released his Youtube video. Finally to be himself, push his career, put himself first and focus on moving forward in life.”

James creates bold, simple and colourful lifestyle illustrations.

Tom Daley

Tom Daley’s video has now been viewed more than 12 million times. He became a role model for gay youth and campaigner for gay rights – in 2018, after winning his fourth Commonwealth gold, he called on 37 Commonwealth countries to decriminalise homosexuality. His honesty also asked questions of the sports industry too; he is still one of only a few athletes to come out during an active career. This use of an alternative media gave Daley absolute control over his message and his own image, and paved the way for other celebrities to do the same.

What else happened in 2013?

Vine launches

An art form is built around a new wave of snappy, six-second comedic content.

Oreo gets reactive

Oreo’s ‘You Can Still Dunk In The Dark’ tweet during the Superbowl blackout sparks marketing’s obsession with reactive content.